While ABIM is always enjoyable in terms of reconnecting with colleagues and peers, for the team at Fera, one of the main reasons for attending this event is the opportunity it provides to gain insights into how biopesticide regulations are evolving and what test requirements are coming down the track. Across presentations, workshops, and discussions, a number of important themes emerged that are shaping the future of biocontrol.
While botanicals (plant extracts) and microbials have long been established, newer product categories like peptides and RNAi-based biopesticides are coming to market, bringing fresh considerations for environmental risk assessment. As Eric Liegeois from the EU Commission emphasised, unlocking biocontrol potential in the EU requires balancing innovation with safety. For biologically derived peptides that are structurally similar to natural counterparts and which show limited stability or environmental exposure, not all traditional ecotoxicity studies may be required. This opens the door for innovative products to reach the market more efficiently while maintaining safety standards.
Workshops on peptide regulation highlighted how a robust scientific rationale can often complement traditional lab studies, ensuring that environmental risks are addressed without unnecessary testing.
Protecting pollinators was a recurring theme throughout the event. As sustainable agriculture practices expand, ensuring that biopesticides are safe for bees and other pollinators remains critical. Discussions highlighted approaches for incorporating pollinator safety into testing and product development, which will continue to shape regulatory expectations.
Genomic technologies are playing an increasingly central role in the biocontrol industry. Beyond well-established applications such as whole- genome sequencing for strain typing, antimicrobial resistance profiling, and secondary metabolite prediction, ABIM 2025 showcased more advanced approaches, including sequencing unculturable microbes and environmental samples. These developments are helping companies gain a clearer picture of both efficacy and environmental impact, while supporting stronger regulatory dossiers.
With novel biopesticides, the challenge is not just scientific innovation, but ensuring that the data presented in regulatory dossiers is comprehensive and targeted. By combining environmental assessments, genomic insights, and efficacy studies, developers can navigate evolving regulatory landscapes more effectively and bring products to market with confidence.
ABIM 2025 reaffirmed the dynamic nature of the biocontrol sector. From regulatory evolution to genomic innovation and pollinator protection, the event underscored the importance of collaboration and early engagement with scientific experts.
At Fera, our team continues to support partners at every stage from early-stage discovery to regulatory approval providing expertise in Biopesticides, Ecotoxicology, Bacterial Genomics, and Antimicrobial Resistance. By integrating scientific insight with practical experience, we help ensure that new biocontrol solutions are safe, effective, and aligned with the needs of growers and regulators alike.
Talk to our experts today and discover how we can help simplify the path to compliance.